Astros on verge of finalizing 25-man opening-day roster; one expected cut to make

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Two days ago, the Astros said they planned to make gradual cuts this week during the end of spring training, in anticipation of their 2013 regular-season opener Sunday against the Rangers at Minute Maid Park.

The Astros informed nine players Monday they would make the opening-day club. Adding in expected position players and pitchers, the Astros appear to only have one more cut to make if the roster remains unchanged. Manager Bo Porter wants to have 13 position players and 12 pitchers on his team.

Either White or Peacock will soon be named the Astros’ No. 4 starter. The loser will take the Astros’ main long-relief role.

Fields is a Rule 5 pick and must stay on the Astros’ 25-man roster the entire season if he makes the team. Gonzalez was initially in contention for the back end of the starting rotation. If he makes the Astros, he’ll be a long reliever and could make spot starts.